A 19-year-old indigene of Ebonyi State, Chibuike Friday, has lost his life after he was allegedly knocked down by a speeding vehicle during an illegal street racing event in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
The tragic incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Sunday at the entrance of Imo State University (IMSU) along Okigwe Road. Another victim, Bright Ukwuoma, sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
Confirming the incident, the Imo State Police Command said it had arrested the driver, identified as 30-year-old Michael Chibuike Dike from Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State.
Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed the suspect was allegedly participating in an unauthorised street race while driving a Lexus ES350 when he struck Chibuike Friday, an indigene of Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, as he attempted to cross the road.
The impact reportedly caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle before hitting the second victim..
Police officers from the Orji Division responded to a distress call, rescued the suspect from an angry mob and rushed the victims to the hospital. Chibuike Friday was confirmed dead, while Bright Ukwuoma is receiving medical attention. The deceased’s body has been deposited in a morgue pending an autopsy.
Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso, has ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. He expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, wished the injured victim a speedy recovery and assured the public that the suspect would be prosecuted if found culpable.
The police also warned motorists against excessive speeding, reckless driving and participation in illegal street racing, urging strict compliance with traffic regulations.
Meanwhile, the Imo State Ministry of Youth Development and Talent Hunt described the incident as tragic and avoidable. The ministry extended its condolences to the bereaved family and stressed that no form of entertainment should endanger lives or public safety.
Authorities have assured that investigations are ongoing and that those responsible will face the full weight of the law.
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